WhatsApp unveils high-security mode, latest tech firm to offer users stronger protection
The Hindu
Meta’s WhatsApp messaging service is offering users an advanced security mode, joining a growing number of U.S. tech firms that are letting users opt into stronger protections against hackers
Meta’s WhatsApp messaging service is offering users an advanced security mode, joining a growing number of U.S. tech firms that are letting users opt into stronger protections against hackers in exchange for a more restrictive experience.
The new option, rolling out on Tuesday and called “Strict Account Settings,” is a one-click button in WhatsApp’s settings that activates a series of defences.
These include blocking media and attachments from unknown senders, disabling link previews (the thumbnails that appear when a URL is entered into a chat) and silencing calls from unknown contacts. All three have been identified as potential vectors for surveillance and advanced hackers.
In a blog post, WhatsApp said that while all its users’ conversations were protected by end-to-end encryption, “we also know that a few of our users – like journalists or public-facing figures – may need extreme safeguards against rare and highly sophisticated cyberattacks.”
Meta Platforms is the third major tech firm to offer a security boost for high-risk users.
In 2022, Apple launched “Lockdown Mode,” which it describes as “an optional, extreme protection” designed for the “very few individuals” who might be targeted by advanced digital threats. Available on iPhone and macOS, the feature disables most message attachment types and link previews and includes restrictions on FaceTime calls and web browsing.
The Clamorous reed warbler is as loud as they come, but in the urban environment, it is outshouted. Weed clearing in urban habitats brings down its home, the bulrushes. Bulrushes in wetlands are not encroachments, but ‘legal homes’ to birds in the crake and rail family and warblers, so government line agencies ought to tread on them thoughtfully
Uttar Pradesh ATS arrests a dental student for alleged connections to an ISIS online module, probing extremist recruitment activities.
Rajinikanth refutes TVK leader's claims about DMK threats preventing his political entry, expressing gratitude to supportive political figures.
Tamil Nadu CM Stalin celebrates the Union government's approval for archaeological excavations, crediting DMK's persistent advocacy for the win.
Dilip Ghosh will contest Kharagpur Sadar in the 2026 West Bengal polls, aiming for increased BJP votes.
A hotel fire in Pahalgam leads to one death from a reversing fire tender; multiple LPG blasts hinder firefighting efforts.
The Clamorous reed warbler is as loud as they come, but in the urban environment, it is outshouted. Weed clearing in urban habitats brings down its home, the bulrushes. Bulrushes in wetlands are not encroachments, but ‘legal homes’ to birds in the crake and rail family and warblers, so government line agencies ought to tread on them thoughtfully
The people of at least one State will heave a sigh of relief now that the schedule for five Assembly elections — all in April — has been announced.
Four charred bodies discovered in a car near Tirunelveli; police investigate potential murder or suicide.
Five insurgents linked to PREPAK and KYKL arrested near India-Myanmar border; explosives and arms recovered in separate operation.
A.P. DGP pays tribute to Potti Sriramulu on his 125th birth anniversary, honouring his sacrifice for a separate Andhra Pradesh.
Discover the cultural and health significance of neem and jaggery during Ugadi, explained by author Ratna Rajaiah.
A minor fire at Thiruvananthapuram government hospital led to patient evacuations; no casualties reported, situation now under control.